Replacing a well-worn climbing frame with something even better while ensuring it blends into the Perthshire countryside can be a tall order. But as the chair of Kenmore Primary School’s parent council explains, the answer was to seek out a more natural solution

When the local council condemned Kenmore Primary School’s play equipment, the parent council knew something had to be done. Although there was another play park in the village, it was outside the school grounds.  An alternative play solution had to be found.

“Over the last few years, the old climbing frame was starting to look a bit worn, and actually the council came in and said it wasn't fit for purpose,” confirms Jenny Gane, chair of the school’s parent council. “So, we were looking for a replacement, but we wanted something else; some kind of focal point for the children’s play that would suit ages five to 11.”

To inform Jenny on her quest, she sought advice from those who knew best – the pupils. “They wanted something they could clamber over, and they wanted a slide and they wanted something to run around,” she explains.

As well as meeting the children’s detailed stipulations, the replacement play equipment also had to complement the beautiful Perthshire countryside that surrounds the school. “We wanted a timber-based solution, rather than a metal structure,” Jenny explains. “Something that would fit in with the natural surroundings and wouldn't stand out too much. We wanted something that would blend in.”

Using materials from sustainably managed sources, Caledonia Play creates natural play solutions that utilize carefully selected timbers and round-timber designs. The result is unique and robust play equipment that is not only durable but also retains the natural beauty of wood.

With the pupils’ help, Jenny made her selection from Caledonia Play’s extensive catalogue of outdoor play solutions. She then set about tailoring it to the school’s needs. “We opted for the double tower because it had little sheltered areas where the children could sit, play and chat. And it also has a slide and they can run around it,” says Jenny. “We also added a barrel for them to crawl through which the kids love because they do a lot of role play. We removed a roof from one of the towers. We had things we could add in or take away. We liked the ability to change elements to our liking.”

Jenny also liked Caledonia Play’s policy of delivering to all mainland UK addresses. “They stood out because they were happy to supply to rural Scotland, which was an issue for other companies.”

She continues: “The installers were very good. They pretty much fitted it all in one day, and then came back the following day just to finish a few things off. We were very impressed with how quickly the Caledonia Play team put the equipment together. Very professional.”

The acid test, however, was the children’s reaction. How would the Kenmore kids respond to the new Caledonia Play double tower assembly? “They love it,” Jenny confirms. “It's been a great addition. As soon as the children come out for break or lunch, they’re straight on it. And at the end of the day, they’re back on it for another play. They really enjoy it.”

The parent council was particularly pleased the new equipment had originated from sustainable sources and the children could enjoy the tactile feel of the wood. But how did it compare to the old, worn-out play kit? “The new equipment is more interesting than the previous one, which was quite basic,” Jenny admits. “I think the new Caldonia Play equipment ticks all the boxes.”